Leland Daniel Gray, aged 75, was called back by the Creator to be with his loved ones that passed on. He was born on October 8th, 1949, in Ashland Montana, to Teddy and Mary Gray. Leland worked as a ranch hand for most of his life at Volberg, Mizpah, and Otter Creek ranches. He also worked as a cook at Homestead Inn, in Broadus where he lived for years. He was a darn good cook. He also worked at St. Labre as a mail clerk and custodian.
Everyone who knew Leland knew he was very kind and generous. He had a love for music and played a mean guitar, he favored Fender guitars. Leland braided bull ropes for many bull riders. He taught us all patience and to be happy with what we have and to enjoy the simple things in life. Leland loved being out at the family land with his brother Dorian and their dogs, especially Smokey and Raisin. He enjoyed when all his relatives would go out and visit and have barbeques by the river. He was always laughing and having a good time with everyone listening to oldies.
Leland is preceded in death by his parents Teddy and Mary Gray. Sisters Ivey Gray, Theodora Gray, and Arlene Gray. Niece Arlana Gray and nephews Preston Gray, Curtis Gray, Wade Gray, and Wyman Gray. Survived by brothers Leonard Gray of Great Falls, Dorian Gray of Ashland, and Royce Gray of Seattle Washington. Sister Nellie Gray Hogan (Leslie Hogan Sr.) of Ashland and half-sister MaryAnn Gray of Oklahoma. The brothers Burt Woods of Otter Creek and Freddy Brien of Billings adopted. Nephew who shares his love of guitars Clayton Kern who loved to joke around with his uncle. Along with many other nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and relatives from the Gray, WhiteWoman, Hogan, Kern, Anderson, Solis, LittleMouth, LittleHead, LittleCoyote, Bearchum families, and many others that knew and cared for Leland that we have missed.
As we bid farewell to our cowboy Leland, let us carry forward the love and laughter he brought into all our lives. Though he may not be with us in body, his spirit will forever echo in our hearts, reminding us to cherish each moment and hold tight to the bonds of family.
Gracie Ann Waples Hill says
Blessings to Leland and his family. We were all just “kids” growing up on the Rosebud Creek. Peaceful hearts.
friend says
Eternal happiness in Heaven Leland. Condolences Gray family
Bert and Helen Woods says
To all of the Gray family. Bert thought the world of his brother and talks about all the times they played guitars together. Leland is going to be greatly missed. May good memories be comfort.
Karson Kluver says
To Leland’s Family, I have a lot of fond memories of Leland from when we were growing up. I used to see Lee and Dorian on the Rosebud Creek road . It always made me feel good. Haven’t seen them for quite a while though. Sorry to have missed the funeral of an old friend. Karson Kluver
Mary Jane Robinson says
Our deepest condolences to this beautiful family.
Sylvester Knows His Gun says
So sorry to hear of Leland’s passing. We were friends in the 8th grade at Lame Deer Grade School. We were both very interested in playing the guitar, and Leland was more skilled with the guitar than I was. I remember him as a very nice person, and can’t remember him saying any unkind words about anyone. Sorry we didn’t get to visit more during our adult years.
Jay & Carla Johnson says
So sorry to hear this about Leland. For as long as I have known him, he was always polite and respectful to everyone! May he rest in peace and enjoy seeing all his loved ones that went before him.
roger and amanda dillard says
RIP Leland you were a good friend and we will sure miss visiting with you and your brother. Have a good journey home no more pain..God Bless you and your family.
Patricia Houseman says
Grey family, sorry for your loss of Leland. I always enjoyed talking with him.
Cathleen Fleming says
Leland was a good friend when I was younger. He will be greatly missed